What do you really want to see?

For most people a safari is the chance to see Africa’s famous wildlife. Few realise though that your destination will have a big impact on what you will see. If there is a specific animal that you have really set your heart on seeing, then choose carefully.

The Big 5

Lion, elephant, leopard, rhino and buffalo – Africa’s famous “Big 5” are probably on the wish list of most safari goers! You would be surprised though at how many reserves are not home to the all of the species. The wonderful Etosha National Park in Namibia does not have buffalo and Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park will not yield any rhino. As for leopard…….well most parks and reserves have them, but they are elusive, so choosing the right park will greatly increase your chances of finding one. Tell us what you really want to see and we’ll point you in the right direction!

Seasons

The changing of the seasons plays an important role in what you will see. Naturally most of Africa’s wildlife migrates to some extend with the coming and going of the rains.

So if you want to see the great wildebeest migration in Kenya, the zebra migration in Botswana or an abundance of babies in Kruger, speak to us about when is the best time to visit.

Birds

African parks and reserves offer some of the finest bird viewing anywhere on earth. As with the other animals where and when you travel will greatly influence what you see.

As a general rule, across southern Africa the summer months are best for birding, but not necessarily for big game viewing, so make sure you know what your priority is before making your booking.

No guarantees

The great wilderness areas of Africa are not zoos, and we cannot stress enough, that there is never a guarantee that you will see any specific animal.

Some of the areas are huge (the Kruger National Park is almost the same size as Belgium) and the animals are free to roam, which makes it all the more special when you do see them.

The number one rule, is the fewer expectations you have of specific sightings the more you will enjoy your safari. Some of our best safaris have been when we have seen few big animals and rangers have concentrated on the incredible small details that make the African savannah so unique!